The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.
Gwyneth Paltrow’s ‘Goop’ promotes potentially harmful coffee enema kit
Detox colon cleanses have been deemed unnecessary by medical professionals
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Gwyneth Paltrow’s lifestyle website Goop is promoting a DIY coffee enema kit, which may prove harmful to people’s health.
A coffee enema is a type of colon cleanse that involves inserting a mixture of brewed coffee and water into the colon via the rectum.
This particular coffee enema being shared on Goop in "The Beauty & Wellness Detox Guide" is being sold by a company called Implant O’Rama for $135 (£100).
A number of medical professionals have advised against unnecessary detoxes, as your body already has the tools it needs to rid itself of toxins.
“If you have a liver, your body is already getting rid of toxins,” Roberta Anding, a dietitian and sports nutritionist told CBS News.
“You don’t need to do any cleanses.”
Undergoing colon cleanses could lead to potentially harmful consequences.
According to the Mayo Clinic, colon cleanses are common practice when preparing to undergo a procedure such as a colonoscopy.
However, colon cleanses in other circumstances are not only unwarranted, but they can be detrimental to your health.
“Proponents of colon cleansing believe that toxins from your gastrointestinal tract can cause a variety of health problems, such as arthritis, allergies and asthma,” Dr Michael F. Picco writes.
“They believe that colon cleansing improves health by removing toxins, boosting your energy and enhancing your immune system.
“However, there’s no evidence that colon cleansing produces these effects.”
Picco goes on to detail the specific impact of coffee enemas, mentioning that they have been linked to several deaths in the past.
“Colon cleansing can also cause less serious side effects, such as cramping, bloating, nausea and vomiting,” he explains.
This isn’t the first time Goop has promoted questionable products.
Last year, the website published a post about the benefits of using vaginal jade eggs, which was quickly debunked by gynecologists.
The Implant O’Rama website makes a point of stating that the information provided in regard to their products shouldn’t replace advice given by a medical doctor.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments